Spinach and Feta Crisps (Mediterranean Parmesan)

mediterranean-spinachfetacheesecrisps These crispy Mediterranean-inspired bites are made with fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese and savoury Parmesan, all baked to perfection. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or light bite.

1 cup fresh spinach, washed and chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup all-purpose flour, unbleached
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ tsp. garlic powder
¼ tsp. dried oregano
sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground
olive oil spray

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C/170°C fan, Gas Mark 5). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, crumbled feta, flour, Parmesan, garlic powder and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.

Add beaten eggs and mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

Scoop small portions (about 1 Tbsp. each) and shape into small patties or crisps. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to help with browning.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crisps are golden and set. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.

Once baked, remove the crisps from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a plate to finish cooling, and they will be ready to serve with your favourite dipping sauce.

Makes 12-15 crisps.

Cook's Notes:

Make-Ahead: You can make these up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven for a quick reheat.
Make Them Smaller: If you want bite-sized treats, simply cut your pastry into smaller squares and reduce the baking time slightly.

Storage:

You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
Freeze for Later: These freeze beautifully. Make a big batch and pop some in the freezer for when you need a quick snack or appetizer.

Variations and Customizations:

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
Vegetarian Options: Add other vegetables to the mix for extra nutrients. Consider incorporating chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or zucchini for additional flavour and nutrition.
Herbs and Spices: Feel free to play with other herbs and spices. Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavour profile.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling.
Gluten-Free Options: If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the cheeses and additional ingredients are certified gluten-free, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a binding agent.
Serving with Dips: Serve your crisps with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for a delightful dip that complements the Mediterranean theme.

Serving Suggestions:

These crisps are great with a side of hummus or tzatziki.
These crisps are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with some of these sides to elevate your meal:
Fresh Salads: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the feta crisps.
Dipping Sauces: Try a cool tzatziki sauce, a tangy tomato relish, or even a creamy hummus for dipping.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, these crispy bites would go perfectly with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a dry rosé.
Serve as an Appetizer or Snack: Set out these bites at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes. They’re also great as a quick snack on a cozy evening in.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute spinach with another green? Absolutely. You can swap spinach for kale or even arugula. Just make sure to cook them down and squeeze out any excess liquid before using them.
Can I make these in advance? Yes. You can assemble them ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a day or two. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to get that crispiness back.
Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze really well. Just freeze them after assembling (before baking), then bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with these crisps? A simple salad, a creamy yogurt dip, or even some roasted veggies make great pairings for these crisps.